Puppies are certainly some of the most adorable things on the earth. Dogs can produce a lot of them, too! A single couple of pooches may produce 370,092 puppies in just 7 years! While we generally recommend getting dogs fixed, there are still plenty of pooches out there having puppies. Canine pregnancies usually go easily. Of course, just like any other expectant mother, your pooch will require additional attention during this important time. Continue reading to learn more about how to care for a pregnant dog from a local Crested Butte veterinarian.
Basics of Dog Pregnancy
Gestation in dogs typically lasts about two months, or 62-64 days. However, this is not a hard and fast rule. Also, take in mind that the date of conception may not coincide with the breeding date. Breed and litter size can also be important considerations. Litter sizes normally range from three puppies to roughly fifteen. However, there have been exceptions on both sides of the spectrum.
During the first month, fertilized eggs connect to the uterine horn lining. From then, they double in size every week or so. During the second month, the small beans begin to look more like puppies.
How Will I Know if My Dog is Pregnant?
By the time a dog is near delivery, the pregnancy may be visible to the naked eye. However, it can be difficult to determine in the early stages. You can’t get a test from a pharmacy, so your best bet is to take your dog to the vet.
The most basic is palpation, which involves manually feeling for the puppies. This becomes a realistic method of testing at the end of the first month. This should only be performed by a veterinarian.
After 25 to 25 days, an ultrasound will be a realistic choice. An ultrasound detects heartbeats, allowing you to determine the number of little furballs your pet is producing. (Fun fact: puppies’ heartbeats are two to three times quicker than their mothers’.) Hormone testing and X-rays are two other diagnostic choices.
What Are the Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs?
You should always seek professional help if you know or believe your dog is pregnant. However, there are a few hints you may look for. For example, you may find that your pet has a sudden increase in appetite.
Other symptoms of pregnancy include weight gain, nipple growth, and lack of energy.
You may also notice behavioral changes. Some dogs become agitated. Others prefer cuddling and tenderness. You may also see nesting behavior.
Caring for Your Expectant Mama
Once you’ve confirmed that your dog is pregnant, your primary focus should be on keeping her healthy and safe, as well as ensuring that the growing puppies receive the necessary nutrition. Diet is quite important here. If your pet is already eating high-quality food and was close to her target weight before getting pregnant, you may be able to keep her on the same diet until the end of her pregnancy. You may need to brace yourself for this: feeding a pregnant dog too much food can be deadly. Toward the end of her pregnancy, gradually increase your pet’s caloric intake. At this point, modest, frequent meals are generally preferable to larger ones. Ask your vet for specifics.
Taking Your Pregnant Dog to the Vet
Always take a dog to the veterinarian before attempting to breed her. A thorough exam is required. Your dog will also need to be up to date on her vaccines. Your veterinarian will look for any conditions that could impact or interfere with the pregnancy or birth. You will also need to bring your pet in during her pregnancy. If any problems are discovered, you should consider scheduling a C-section ahead of time.
Preparing For Puppies
As the big day approaches, you can start looking for telltale signals that your pet is about to give birth to her puppies. Watch out for nipple hypertrophy. You may also notice fluid on your nipples. With some puppies, you may even see or feel the babies move around.
At this time, you’ll require a suitable whelping box. This is a safe and comfortable setting for your dog to give birth. You can buy these or make your own. One option is to use a kids’ pool. Make sure Mama can get in and out while the puppies are enclosed. This should be put in a comfortable, peaceful, and draft-free space.
Remember to show your pet the box!
Here are some of the supplies you may want to get:
- Lining options include newspaper or butcher paper.
- Garbage bags
- Bath Mats
- Clean towels
- Thermometer Bulb Syringe
- Heat Lamp
- Sterile scissors and unwaxed floss (for cord cutting).
- Iodine
Make sure to ask your veterinarian for more information.
Helping Your Dog Deliver Her Puppies
As the big day approaches, your dog may decrease her appetite. She may also begin building herself a den. (You may need to gently guide her towards the whelping box). Other symptoms include panting and a dip in rectal temperature.
When labor begins, you may notice contractions. Puppies will be born inside membranes. Usually, the mother will remove this, but if she does not, you will have to do it yourself. Don’t delay: puppies will quickly run out of air. After you’ve released the puppy, massage it with a clean towel.
Generally, the mother will gnaw through the cord while licking the puppies. If not, you will have to clip it. Tie the ends off and sanitize with iodine.
Ask your veterinarian for more information on what to expect.
What Are the Signs that Something Is Wrong?
Your pet may have her babies at a fairly consistent rate, but there may be pauses in between. Give your pet some water during this time. Your pet might need to relieve herself. She may deliver a puppy outside, so be ready!
For the most part, labor should take around an hour each puppy. This is why it’s critical to determine how many are expected. Also, keep track of the number of placentae.
Contact your vet if any of these apply:
- More than two hours pass between arrivals and not all puppies are released.
- Your dog’s rectal temperature dropped over 24 hours ago, but labor hasn’t begun.
- Your dog appears to be in severe agony.
- Any of the puppies is having difficulty breathing.
- No puppies have arrived within two hours of contractions beginning, especially if you detect green discharge.
- If your dog has intense contractions for more than an hour and no puppies
- Trembling, collapse, or shivering
- If your dog produces dark green or red liquid before the first puppy
- Puppies don’t nurse
- You have more puppies than placentas.
Remember to consult your Crested Butte veterinarian on a regular basis throughout your pet’s pregnancy. We’re always happy to help!
Make An Appointment At Our Crested Butte Pet Hospital
Do you have questions or concerns about your pregnant dog? Are you interested in reproductive services for dogs? Contact your Crested Butte pet hospital today!
